Maria Perdomo-Torres, LCSW-S, MHA, CFSW
My Path to Becoming a Therapist
I’ve always had a keen ability to understand and sense other people’s feelings. My friends and family would often describe me as kind, compassionate, and wise. From an early age, I truly enjoyed helping others. I first became interested in understanding the intricacies of the human mind while in college. Pursuing this interest eventually led me to choose psychology as my major.
Later, when I joined the U.S. Army as an active-duty soldier, it made sense to choose the Mental Health Specialist military occupation. I completed my training at the Fort Sam Houston Academy of Health Sciences and gained valuable work experience rotating through inpatient psychiatry, outpatient mental health clinics, and substance abuse clinics.
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland and went on to pursue a Master’s in Social Work at the University of Washington. To become a licensed therapist, I also completed over 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work and passed the national ASWB clinical exam.
Professional Experience & Specialized Training
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of clinical settings with a wide range of client demographics, from children to older adults, members of the LGTBQ+ and/or BIPOC communities, and all levels of education and socioeconomic status. I have also worked closely with special populations, to include military personnel and their families, individuals with chronic illnesses and their caregivers, and first-time mothers/pregnant women.
I have completed specialized training in trauma-informed care, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectic behavioral therapy), motivational interviewing, social learning theory, narrative therapy, and ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), among others. Additionally, my passion for increasing access to healthcare and overcoming economic disparities led me to complete a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration and becoming a Certified Financial Social Worker. I am also a Board-designated Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in the state of Texas.
The learning is ongoing though, as psychotherapy is a fascinating and ever-evolving field. There is always exciting research, new treatment approaches, or theories worth learning more about. I am often reading books and articles or attending conferences, webinars, and trainings to stay up to date with new developments in the field.
Personal Life
I am a first-generation Latina immigrant, fluent in English and Spanish. I was born and raised in Cuba. My family and I were granted political asylum and came to the United States as refugees when I was 16 years old. I am married and have two wonderful daughters. I am also an animal lover, and proud owner of three miniature wiener dogs.
I love to spend my free time reading, traveling, enjoying the outdoors, and learning about different cultures through art, history, or food. Above all, I have a passion for learning, exploring, and connecting with others in an authentic and meaningful way.
Let's Get Started!
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Key Qualifications
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Maryland
Master of Social Work, University of Washington
Licensed Clinical Social Worker in AZ, CA, FL, NM, TX, and WA
Board-designated Clinical Social Worker Supervisor in the state of Texas
Master of Science in Healthcare Administration, University of Maryland
Certified Financial Social Worker
Fluent in English & Spanish